Old Railway Quarter in Swindon wins Best Renovation Silver at the What House? Awards 2016, which showcases the best new homes in Britain. The award was presented by Baron Hague of Richmond at a gala luncheon held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London's Park Lane on 18 November 2016.

Located at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Works Conservation area, this is a mixed-use development that has been created with the consideration, quality and architectural innovation normally associated with luxury schemes.

The buildings are rooted in the history of the Great Western Railway. Thomas Homes was fortunate to take over both the Grade II* listed Chain Testing House, which will become a mini museum, as well as two major 1840s workshops with cast iron trussed roofs where springs were manufactured. These have been sensitively converted into 56 apartments, which offer mezzanine and loft-style spaces.

With a clear understanding of old buildings, Thomas Homes has retained as much original fabric as possible with the result that a rigorous industrial look has been maintained. Complementing this, the new work, cleverly inserted within the historic stone walls, is clearly 21st century, creating both dynamism and readability.

Much of the success of the scheme comes from an understanding of materials both old and new. Great care has been taken repairing the historic fabric, including the mixing of coal dust with lime to match the original mortar. Sustainability is not forgotten and 177 photovoltaic panels have been carefully incorporated to power communal areas.

For more information on Old Railway Quarter please call or visit the Thomas Homes Sales Office at Old Railway Quarter on 01793 497 974 and open Thursday to Monday 10am to 4pm. New apartments under construction in Olympus House are currently available for sale from £150,000.